VW to show updated Microbus concept next year

Volkswagen will use next year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to show off an updated version of its Microbus camper van concept, a new report finds.

VW has been toying with the idea of reviving its iconic Microbus for the last several years, and the first step down the production path could finally take place this January in Las Vegas. According to Autocar, VW will use CES to debut a new concept car that will preview a production-bound Microbus.

The show car is expected to pull styling cues from the Bulli concept (pictured) and use an electric drivetrain. Set to use the same lithium-ion battery tech as the Audi R8 E-Tron, the Microbus should be good for between 250 and 310 all-electric miles.

In addition to the pure electric Microbus, VW will also offer conventionally-powered versions of the camper. Four-cylinder gas and diesel powerplants are planned.

The Microbus will fit in with VW’s commercial vehicle strategy — which will also include small pickup trucks — but we’re sure more than a few examples will end up as nostalgic people carriers.

Production of the new-age Microbus is slated to kick off in 2017 at VW’s plant in Puebla, Mexico.